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October 1 is National Seniors Day! Coinciding with the United Nations’ International Day of Older Persons, today marks an important opportunity to celebrate older adults and their incredible contributions to society.
As Canada’s population rapidly ages, it’s also a critical time to recognize the urgent need to ensure every senior is fully supported to live their best life — including through the work of United Way Centraides in communities nationwide.
That’s why, as we mark National Seniors Day, we’re putting the spotlight on the work of two United Way Centraides in Western Canada that are leading the way in helping older adults thrive: United Way British Columbia and United Way of Calgary and Area.
In the years ahead, BC and Alberta expect to see dramatic increases in the number of people over 65 living in each province. But without effective coordination between the many community-based organizations serving seniors, far too many older adults are at risk of falling through gaps in the system and having their needs go unmet.
That is, until now.
In recent years, United Way BC and United Way of Calgary and Area have both stepped forward to lead their province’s Health Aging programs and networks. A knowledge hub with chapters across Canada, Healthy Aging connects organizations supporting seniors so they can work together to coordinate care and support.
As a Healthy Aging leader in BC, United Way BC collaborates closely with community-based seniors’ services to deliver a responsive and flexible service model. Last year, its Healthy Aging portfolio collectively reached 36,000 older adults through 183 programs facilitated by community-based agencies, which delivered more than 573,000 services. The agency’s focus is on health promotion and preventive practices that help BC’s seniors foster independence, social engagement, physical activity and a sense of belonging.
For United Way Calgary and Area, Healthy Aging Alberta is now its first province-wide signature initiative. As the lead for Healthy Aging Alberta, the agency is spearheading provincial efforts to connect community-based organizations working to ensure seniors can access the reliable, non-medical supports they need to thrive independently in the community.
With a focus on low-income seniors living in rural areas across Alberta, Healthy Aging Alberta will focus on supporting more than 25 programs that strive to enhance social connections and improve mental wellness for both seniors and caregivers alike.
As Canada’s population continues to both grow and age, United Way Centraides nationwide are deeply committed to bringing people and communities together to support the wide-ranging needs of older adults in the years ahead.
To learn more about how your local United Way Centraide is making a difference for seniors, or to volunteer, donate or discover other ways to get involved, find your local agency today!
